Hot mic catches Chuck Schumer protecting ‘Gang of 8′ Republicans?

During a vote on an amendment to that would limit the eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit during a Judicial Committee hearing on Monday, New York Democratic Sen. Chuck Schumer was caught on microphone asking someone who appeared to be a staffer, “Do our Republicans have a pass on this one if they want?”

The amendment split the so-called “Gang of Eight” along party lines, failing by a vote of 8-10. However, the hot mic incident raises the question: do “Gang of Eight” members Sens. Jeff Flake, Lindsey Graham, John McCain and Marco Rubio need Schumer’s permission to vote along party lines.

Had the amendment passed, it would have provided that only citizens and lawful permanent residents are eligible for Earned Income Tax Credit.